Perceptions, insights, and attitudes of selected Filipino female physicians on cardiovascular risks and diseases
- Author:
Lilybell Victoria E. Estepa
1
;
Aileen Cynthia F. de Lara
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: cardiovascular risks and diseases; Filipino female physicians
- MeSH: prevention & control
- From: Philippine Journal of Cardiology 2023;51(2):63-71
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, perceptions, insights and attitudes on cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, personal health-related lifestyle practices, and lifestyle counseling practices of selected female physicians who are practicing or training in the PH.
METHODS:This was a descriptive ambispective cross-sectional study where the survey questionnaire was adapted and modified with the authors’ permission, conducted online, and answered by 484 consenting female physicians.
RESULTS:The majority had accurate responses to the CVD prevention knowledge items; 36.98% had hypertension, 32% were obese, 28.5% had dyslipidemia, and 17.2% had diabetes mellitus; 60.33% practice sleep of 6 to 8 hours, 53.51% eat vegetables and fruits daily, 55.79% prefer fish and seafood, 89.05% do not smoke, 61.2% take coffee or black tea daily, 84.51% have no regular exercise, and 30.79% of those who do exercise for only 10 to 20 minutes; 67.98% add salt or soy or fish sauce to their meals, and 72.73% do not drink enough water daily; 44.42% do not undergo annual general check up, and 58.06% do not have a personal physician. Limitations due to COVID-19 pandemic, lack of education, and expensive screening tests are perceived to be major barriers to CVD screening. More than 90% practice health teachings on diabetes mellitus prevention, hypertension screening, cholesterol screening and management, nutrition, and weight management. Counseling on regular exercise, smoking, and alcohol abuse is practiced by 88.02%, 85.74%, and 83.88% of our respondents, respectively.
CONCLUSION:Enhancement in physicians’ knowledge and behavior toward CVD risk management and prevention is an integral part in the improvement of CVD prevention. - Full text:20241101142430673982.pdf
